The War of 1812 collection is a miscellaneous collection of approximately 300 single items relating to the War of 1812. The papers cover many aspect of the war on both the American and British sides, including naval and military operations, regimental matters, trade issues, and state and national politics relating to the war.

Language: The material is in EnglishRepository: William L. Clements Library, University of Michigan

Cataloging funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the "We the People" project.

Preferred Citation:

War of 1812 Collection, William L. Clements Library, The University of Michigan

Arrangement

This collection is arranged chronologically.

History

The War of 1812 was a military conflict between the United States and Great Britain that lasted from 1812 to 1815. Fighting occurred primarily along the border between the United States and Canada, along the Eastern Seaboard, and throughout the South. The British and American navies fought on the Great Lakes and on the Atlantic Ocean. The Treaty of Ghent ended the war in December 1814, and the British victory at Fort Bowyer on February 12, 1815, marked the end of the fighting.

Collection Scope and Content Note

The War of 1812 collection (approximately 300 items) contains miscellaneous letters and documents relating to the War of 1812. The papers cover many aspects of the war on both the American and British sides, including naval and military operations, regimental matters, trade issues, and state and national politics relating to the war. Item types include letters, memoranda, reports, orders, documents, reminiscences, financial documents, and returns.

Subject Terms

Subjects:

Albany (N.Y.)

Alexandria (Va.)

Amherstburg (Ont.)

Annapolis (Md.)

Attica (N.Y.)

Augusta (Me.)

Baltimore (Md.)--History--War of 1812.

Bangor (Me.)

Bermuda.

Blechertown (Mass.)

Boston (Mass.)

Buffalo (N.Y.)--History--War of 1812.

Chippewa, Battle of, Ont., 1814.

Connecticut--History--War of 1812.

Constitution (Frigate)

Delaware--History--War of 1812.

Detroit (Mich.)

Dover (Del.)

Fairfield (Ct.)

Florida--History--War of 1812.

Fort Erie (Ont.)--History--Siege, 1814.

Fredericktown (Md.)

Gloucester (R.I.)

Kentucky--History--War of 1812 Knoxville (Tenn.)

Lake Champlain, Battle of, N.Y., 1814.

Lisbon (Portugal)

London (England)

Louisiana--History--War of 1812.

Lundy's Lane, Battle of, Ont., 1814.

Maine--History--War of 1812.

Maryland--History--War of 1812.

Massachusetts--History--War of 1812.

Michigan--History--War of 1812.

Military pensions--United States--War of 1812.

Mississippi--History--War of 1812.

Montréal (Québec)

New Gloucester (Me.)

New Jersey--History--War of 1812.

New Orleans, Battle of, New Orleans, La., 1815.

New York (N.Y.)--History--War of 1812.

New York (State)--History--War of 1812.

Newport (Ky.)

Newport (R.I.)

Niagara Frontier (N.Y.)--History--War of 1812.

Northwest, Old--History--War of 1812.

Ohio--History--War of 1812.

Ontario--History--War of 1812.

Paris, France.

Pennsylvania--History--War of 1812.

Philadelphia (Pa.)--History--War of 1812.

Pittsburgh (Pa.)

Plattsburg, Battle of, Plattsburgh, N.Y., 1814.

Portland (Me.)

President (Frigate)

Quebec.

Queenston Heights, Battle of, Ont., 1812.

Sackets Harbor, Battle of, Sackets Harbor, N.Y., 1813.

Southern States--History--War of 1812.

Tennessee.

United States. Army. Infantry Regiment, 6th.

United States--Foreign relations--1812-1815.

United States--History--War of 1812.

United States--History--War of 1812--Naval operations.

United States. Navy--History--War of 1812.

United States. War Dept.

Vermont--History--War of 1812.

Washington D.C.

West Point (N.Y.)

Wyandot Indians.

Contributors:

Armistead, George, 1780-1818.

Bainbridge, William, 1774-1833.

Biddle, James, 1783-1848.

Biddle, Nicholas, 1786-1844.

Binney, Amos, 1778-1833.

Buchanan, James, 1791-1868.

Campbell, George W. (George Washington), 1794-1869.

Clay, Green, 1757-1826.

Dearborn, Henry, 1751-1829.

Duane, William, 1760-1835.

Eustis, William, 1753-1825.

Freeling, Francis, Sir, 1764-1836.

Gallatin, Albert, 1761-1849.

Hull, William, 1753-1825.

Izard, George, 1777-1828.

Jackson, Andrew, 1767-1845.

King, Rufus, 1755-1827.

Larned, Simon, 1753-1817.

Loring, Joseph, 1767-1838.

Macomb, Alexander, 1748-1831.

Madison, James, 1751-1836.

Meigs, Return Jonathan, 1740-1823.

Monroe, James, 1758-1831.

Pinkney, lieutenant-colonel (Ninian), 1776-1825.

Prevost, George, Sir, 1767-1816.

Rodney, C. A. (Caesar Augustus), 1772-1824.

Russell, Jonathan, 1771-1832.

Tallmadge, Benjamin, 1754-1835.

Varnum, Joseph B. (Joseph Bradley), 1751-1821.

Wadsworth, Decius, 1768-1821.

Warren, John Borlase, Sir, 1753-1822.

Genre Terms:

Letters (correspondence)

Memorandums.

Receipts (financial records)

Contents List

Container / Location

Title

War of 1812 collection [series]

Box 1

1806 April 16. Gilbert Gardner ALS to Gayer Gardner; Isle of France.
(5 pages)
American cargo ships have been captured by the British and condemned at Ceylon; "it has ever appeared to me that there is a want of attention in the government of the United States towards the Citizens who unfortunately are obliged to follow the seas…they are the only Class of Citizens who are any ways Exposed to personal Insults and it appears to me that they merit a greater share of Government Protection."

1806 July 14. Henry Dearborn ALS to Barnabas Bidwell; Washington, [D.C.].
(2 pages)
Regarding an incident on a schooner; he is not relying on information that he's heard concerning "the prisoners said to have been taken in the Schooners," and will wait on more authentic information. He also congratulates Bidwell, a U.S. Representative from Massachusetts, "on the improved state of the public affairs of Massachusetts."

[1806 to 1812?]. Nicholas Biddle AMS.
(1 page)
"On the Advantages of a Navy"; provides an argument on the necessity of standing army, including the need "to protect our trade as ourselves." A navy is most needed because "we are threatened with invasion and annihilation from a country who are far superior to us in number and a navy is the only means of protecting our coast from them. A commercial country cannot subsist without a navy..."

1807 June 14. Tench Coxe ALS to Caesar Augustus Rodney; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
(3 pages)
Concerning the situation with Britain; which "requires so vigilant and so close an attention…"

1807 June 27. Christopher Fry ALS to Jacob Little; Norfolk, [Virginia].
(1 page)
He communicates that a captain wants "his pilot…to Leave City Point with the Alfred…he shall want More Cash, & a Cable, which I shall have Made for him." He also mentions the impact of attack on the Chesapeake; it has "Left Business at a stand, Supplies to the British Ships are stopped, and we are now waiting to know what Steps will be taken by our Government, tho all is adgitation."

1807 July 7. Henry Burbeck LS to Constant Freeman; Washington, [D.C.].
(2 pages)
Fitting garrison; "The present situation of affairs renders it highly necessary…to put your Garrison in the best posible state of defense…" Mentions outfitting carriages, rammers, and cannon. "And as your own reputation and that of the Regiment depends on your efforts, I feel partcularly satisfied that with the means you posess, that nothing will be wanting on your part to be prepared whenever the crisis of defending the American Flagg shall arrive."

1807 November 24. William Bainbridge ALS to Charles W. Goldsborough; Philadelphia, [Pennsylvania].
(3 pages)
Ready for service if the country goes to war; "I feel very anxious for the arrival of the Revenge, in order for the Government to ascertain wither Peace or War is to be the fate of our Country…in the event of the latter I trust they [his services] would be found usefull to our Country & honourable to myself." Discussing issues concerning pay.

1808 February 6. Peter DeWitt ALS to John DeWitt; New York.
(3 pages)
Letter to his father regarding hardships caused by the embargo; "our national prospects are daily becoming more and more gloomy…mercantile business more and more declining." He fears the consequences of war with England; "a war with england is as confidently apprehended as ever peace was desired--and that England will not permit us to trade with either of the other European Countries is not pretended to be doubted." Discusses matters relating to his father's western lands.

1808 March 8. Peter DeWitt ALS to John DeWitt; New York.
(6 pages)
Hardships caused by the embargo; he has heard that the embrago may not be taken off in "in this city…less than one or two years." The American government will have it so that the "the people of this Country shall suffer all the disadvantages of War & not reap...the advantages of peace." Mentions the specifics of a duel, and feels that it is advantageous to settle in the Ohio country.

1808 April 19. Henry Dearborn LS to Israel Smith; War Department.
(2 pages)
Regarding a violation of embargo in Vermont; "you will perceive that a violation of the Embargo laws, is contemplated on the borders of the lake, within the State of Vermont...I am directed by the President of the United States...to request that you will afford such further assistance by the Militia...for suppressing any unlawful combination with an intention, of violating the laws of the United States, by opposing those laying an Embargo, passed in the present of Congress."

1808 October 20. Henry Dearborn ALS to Henry Alexander Scammell Dearborn; Washington, [D.C.].
(4 pages)
Discusses Madison’s election and relations with Britain; "I preceive there will be no other Alternative but War, or a continuance of the Embargo, with such additional provisions for a strict & ridged execution of it…the honor and character of the Nation must forbid any relaxations in our measures until the European Nations shall be disposed to respect our sacred rights."

1808 November 13. William Eustis ALS to [Richard Cutts]; Boston, [Massachusetts].
(1 page)
Regarding the benefits of employing seamen during embargo; "It is intimated to me that there is a probability of the Embargo's being continued. If that should be the case is it not desirable that the seamen...should be engaged in the Service." Speaks on the benefits of employing these men, including the fact that they will not be idle, which contributes to riots in seaport towns. The "Govr. continues & is able to do business.--it is said he will hold out & die with honor" [referring to James Sullivan, who would die on December 10, 1808].

1808 December 9. John Howe ALS to Sir Francis Freeling; Washington.
(8 pages)
Regarding the political situation and the lack of an American Navy; "I believe Mr. Madison is at present convinced that if he plunges America into a War with England, it will involve the Country in such a scene of espence and misery, or will injure eventually his popularity, and make his administration painful in the extreme." He states that a war with France might be preferable because New England is hostile to Madison "and who have no objection to a War with France."

1808 December 20. Ezekiel Bacon ALS to A. Bishop; Washington, [D.C.].
(3 pages)
Some are looking to war; he encloses a report from Mr. [Albert] Gallatin, "I think his views against to War…"

1809 February 4. William Bainbridge ALS to James Biddle; Washington, [D.C.].
(1 page)
Regarding naval matters; appointment to second Lieutenant and reassignment to a new ship. Captain [Isaac] Hull has taken command of the Chesapeake, Bainbridge sends a message to Biddle's father.

1809 February 13. Amos A. Evans ALS to John Evans and Mary Alexander Evans; New Orleans, [Louisiana].
(4 pages)
Letter from son serving on a ship; "I have not heard a word from Elkton [Maryland] since my departure." Gives a description of the houses and buildings around New Orleans; "they remind me of old castles I have read of in novels." Mentions the commercial importance of the city.

1809 June 15. Amos A. Evans ALS to John Evans and Mary [Alexander] Evans; New Orleans, [Louisiana].
(3 pages)
Letter from son serving on a ship, mentions the embargo; "the news of the removal of the Embargo hindered it from being a proftable one…the situation of many Americans as well as Spaniards & French in the Floridas was truly wretched." Discusses matters relating to the United States' differences with Great Britain and issues regarding search and imprisonment.

1810 July 18 and 1810 July 19. Joseph A. Ellery DS to William Dolliver, Jr.; Lisbon.
(3 pages)
Document sworn before William Jarvis, American Consul to Lisbon, testifying to William Dolliver being an American citizen.

1811 February 18. M.F.F. Berkeley, Baron Fitzhardinge LS to George Berkeley; Tagus River.
(2 pages)
Regarding impressment of four men; "The Men names in the Margin, claimed by Americans by Mr Green, Deputy Consul of the United States of America, are now on board His Majesty's Ship under my Command." One of the men was "impressed from a Portuguese Merchant Ship, not being on her Muster Rolls; the two latter were sent on board...from His Majesty's Ship...and have American Protections."

After 1811 May 17. John O. Creighton AD.
(3 pages)
Regarding the Little Belt Affair, including eyewitness accounts of the skirmish between an American frigate and British sloop off the coast of North Carolina (with a six-page contemporary folio copy).

1811 May 31 to 1811 June 30. United States Army Sixth Infantry Regiment. Pr. Document.
(2 pages)
Muster Roll of Capt. George Nelson's company in the United States Sixth Infantry Regiment.

1811 June 29. Sat. Clark ALS to Isaac Clark; Annapolis, [Maryland].
(2 pages)
Regarding the Little Belt Incident; "You have probably seen Capt. Hinghams Letters giving account of the affair of the Little Belt which is totally different from that of Comod. Rogers. It is anxiously believed here that the affair will result in War."

1811 December 16. Alexander Macomb ALS to Samuel Champlain; Fredericktown, Maryland.
(4 pages)
Regarding difficulty of getting promotion in the army; "The Doctors letter I enclosed…with Such remarks as were I deemed proper & I trust according with his wished to procure promotion in the present army." He senses "much difficulty as every one seems jealous of his own particular rights." He mentions that Congress is talking about raising 25,000 additional troops.

1812 January 11. Hughes and Dean Pr. letter to Brown and Ives; Liverpool, [England].
(3 pages)
Regarding tensions between U.S. and Britain and anticipating the U.S. declaration of war. Discuses matters pertaining to cotton, turpentine, wheat, flour, and other crops. Includes a table with information pertaining to the stock and prices of American, Russian, and West Indian produce.

1812 January 16. Benjamin Tallmadge ALS; Washington, [D.C.].
(4 pages)
Regarding the sentiment in Congress for war against Britain; "The Great Question now before us is the War with G. Britain. If we could draw any Safe Conclusions from the noisy, blurbering Speeches of our Kentucky & Tenesee Brethren…we might as well Say that war...[might] be the result." [presumably referencing War Hawks like Henry Clay and Felix Grundy.] He also mentions those opposed to a potential war on the facts that it would take too many men and too much money.

1812 February 26. Jonathan Russell ALS to Joel Barlow; London, [England].
(3 pages)
News from America makes him suspect hostilities; "The information received from America gives reason to expect measures of hostility towards this country - altho it is not here believed that any such measures will be adopted…we are considered incapable of making any very formidable effort..." He makes brief reference to circumstances surrounding the British Regency; "The famous epoch of the cessation of the restrictions on the Regent [George IV] has passed..."

1812 March 24. Jonathan Russell ALS to Joel Barlow; London, [England].
(4 pages)
Expresses the inability to having a philosophicae apparatus shipped from America because of embargo; he had requested of [Isaac] Hull's officers that sent boxes to the United States aboard the USS Constitution, which Hull refused because it was merchandize. He has made further arrangements regarding his items.

1812 May 3. William Eustis ALS; War Department.
(3 pages)
Building up of Army, including matters pertaining to stores and barracks. "The whole labour of this Department is still incumbent on the Secretary of War…Congress have passed an act authorising two additional Secretaries, assistant I should have said: an I will thank you to name two or three in whom you should have confidence."

1812 June 10. Jonathan Snowden ALS to Joseph Bloomfield; West Point, [New York].
(1 page)
Regarding the amount of arms ready for service; "at this store there is only 379 stand of French arms…that is fit for service and they have been used formerly Should you think of calling for them, it will be necessary that you obtain and order for that purpose from the secretary of war to inable me to deliver them..."

1812 June 15. United States ADS to William Kelley; Urbana, [Ohio].
(1 page)
Receipt from U.S. government of $30 payment for "one Pack Horse for Ohio Volunteers under command of Brigr. Genl. Wm Hull…Recd. of James Taylor," a United States agent.

1812 June 26. William Eustis ALS to Col. Worthington.
(1 page)
Appointment of general Indian Council at Brownstown, expects Tecumseh and other chiefs to attend; "By a Letter from General Hull it appears that he has appointed a general Indian Council at Brownstown at which he expects Tecumseh & the other chiefs from the Wabash & the Delawares...The council to be held in 40 Days from June 9th the date of the Letter."

Box 2

1812 July 5. George Cranfield Berkeley LS to John Jeffery; Lisbon, Portugal.
(2 pages)
Thanking the merchants of the British Factory at Lisbon for an address given to him when he left. He references his retirement as Lord High Admiral of the Portuguese Navy and public life; "my regret...of departing from this Station, is considerably lessened by a knowledge of the Character of my successor, being confident you will find in his measures an Equal attention to the public Interests...I beg leave to acknowledge my Thanks for the honor, you have conferr'd upon me."

1812 July 9. [William] Hull ALS to James Taylor; Detroit, [Michigan].
(2 pages)
Request for pack horses to be transported to John H. Piatt. At the bottom Piatt writes that he "Received of James Taylor…forty pack Horses Detroit July 10th 1812 Seventy bags. thirty five pack Saddles…"

1812 August 1. [Henry] Bathurst LS to The Officer administering the Government New Brunswick [George Stracey Smyth]; Downing Street, [London, England].
(2 pages)
Circular that all American ships are to be detained; "I transmit to you...a Copy of an Order of His Royal Highness the Prince Regent…directing that all Ships and Vessels belonging to the United States of America...within or which may hereafter arrive within the limits of any of the Ports, Harbours or Roads of any of His Majesty's Forts or Settlements abroad, should be detained...with all Persons and Effects on board the said Ships and Vessels."

1812 August 16 - 1812 September 1. Northwest Army DS copy, signed.
(8 pages)
[Michigan] Territory. 8 pages. Protest against Britain’s retention of private property taken at the surrender of Detroit, with list of property in question. Includes protests by James Taylor and James Findley.

1812 August 27. Nathan Sage DS.
(2 pages)
Certified account of Peter Buell Porter, Quartermaster General of New York State, with Henry Taft for $6. The receipt is signed by Taft.

1812 August 28. Henry B. Armstrong ALS to Cushion; Greenbush.
(1 page)
Forwarding him a commission; "I seize this opportunity of forwarding to you a Commission which I received June the 30th 1812."

1812 August 30. James Monroe ALS; Washington, [D.C.].
(1 page)
Discusses an appointment and mentions that "disaster at Detroit." This compels him to write about the "the marshal character which must be removed."

1812 August 31. John Hale ALS to Sir William Amherst; Quebec.
(5 pages)
Report on Hull's surrender at Detroit and a map of Detroit

1812 September 4. Frederick Spofford ALS to Charles Spofford; Deer Isle, [Maine].
(1 page)
Trade conditions in war time; discusses various voyages to Boston and Lisbon. "The War measures of our Government have almost put a stop to business in this part of the country, it is almost impossible to collect debts or do any business to advantage…it will wax worse instead of better..."

1812 September 5. Henry Dearborn ALS to William Eustis; Greenbush.
(1 page)
Discusses the return of Captain Pickney from Montreal; "at Montreal he was allowed to pass freely about…Capt McClary accompanied him from Burlington to Montreal." Mentions Governor-General Prevost, Detroit, "and the prospect of hostilities being commenced on the frontier."

1812 September 9. . R[eturn] J[onathan] Meigs ALS to Fort Manary Commanding Officer; Urbana, [Ohio].
(1 page)
Governor Meigs directs rations to be issued to families who fled River Raisin; "You will see that Rations are issued to Andrew Race's family & the other families in Lick have fled from River Raisin…"

[1812] September 10. Return Jonathan Meigs ALS to Col. [Alexander] Enos; Urbana, [Ohio].
(2 pages)
Discusses the movements of General Harrison and stationing of troops; "Gen: Harrison is gone to Fort Wayne with 3,000 Troops chiefly Kentuckians--2,000 Kentuckians are near Dayton-I have here 1,000 Men…waiting for Instructions from the Sec at War." He mentions Col. Enos's possible command on the frontiers.

1812 September 12. Alexander J. Dallas ALS to John Steele.
(2 pages)
Pertaining to goods seized by the government under the Non Importation Acts] All goods that had been imported from Britain subsequent to the revocation of the Orders in Council can not be seized and must be returned; "all goods, imported in any vessel, sailing from England, subsequent to the alledged revocation of the Orders in Council...shall be restored to the respective claimants, upon Bond, in the manner prescribed, by law for cases of forfeiture under the Revenue system."

1812 September 12. John Hale ALS to Sir William Amherst; Quebec.
(2 pages)
Report on Hull's surrender at Detroit.

1812 September 12 to 1812 October 14. United States Army 7 DsS.
(2 pages)
Receipts for horses purchased from J. Witmore & Company.

1812 September 18. Amos Stoddard ALS to James R. Butler; Pittsburgh, [Pennsylvania].
(1 page)
Orders to march to Northwest Army; "It is the direction of the Secy of war, that you march your company to the northwestern Army. You will accordingly proceed with all convenient dispatch- and on your arrival report yourself to the Officer commanding that army."

1812 September 19. Arad Joy ALS to Ira Joy; Camp at Manchester, near Niagara Falls, [New York].
(4 pages)
Describes living conditions in camp; "I am in Good Health our Regiment remain in Good Health not one yet So Sick as to go to the hospital…" Life as paymaster; Routine of closing down camp at night.

1812 September 22. [Henry Addington, Viscount] Sidmouth Partially Printed Document to Hopkins, Gray, & Glover; Whitehall, [London, England].
(1 page)
"To all Commanders of His Majesty’s Ships of War and Privateers."Granting Hopkins, Gray, & Glover a license for their unarmed vessel to bring imported American grain to Cadiz.License issued according to the 1808 "Act to permit Goods secured in Warehouses in the Port of London to be removed to the Out Ports for Exportation to any Part of Europe…"Notes restrictions on French vessels and subjects. Ensures American cargoes and vessels will not be molested "on Account of any Hostilities that may exist between His Majesty and the said United States of America."No. 63 from Eyre and Strahan, His Majesty’s Printers.

1812 September 25. J. Chandler AL to Daniel Chandler; Lexington.
(2 pages)
Refers to Hull’s surrender; "Hull's disgrace…fills the minds of people with sensations not easily described--the feds endeavour to excuse him…you mention your going to Montreal…God grant in going there you may go as conquerors not as conquered."

1812 September 25. William Eustis LS to Joel Barlow; War Department.
(2 pages)
In code [directs Joel Barlow, an American agent abroad, to assist Henry Wilson. Wilson will secretly export arms to the United States from Ostend in Belgium].

1812 September 26. Thomas Sewell DS; Washington, [D.C.].
(1 page)
Offer of reward for information on the person who tried to destroy his gunpowder mills; "Several attempt have been made…this month to destroy my gunpowder mills near this…There being the stronges reason for believing that the agents in this affair- may be induced by prospects of reward- I do hereby bind myself to pay...fifteen hundred dollars, for such disclosures."

1812 September 28. Henry Dearborn LS to Jacob Eustis; Head quarters, Greenbush.
(1 page)
Josiah Paine’s bill for payment due him by the U.S. government; "Mr. Payne of Portland was employed, at my request, to send an express to Passamaquoddy:--which service was performed with great dispatch.--His demand is 250…the charge is high - but it must be paid. - you will therefore please to discharge the demand."

1812 September 30. John Parker Boyd ALS to Henry Dearborn; Eastern Division Head Quarters, Boston, [Massachusetts].
(1 page)
Acknowledging advice; he encloses an earlier letter and an order to a major in the militia, "copies of which have been forwarded to the War Department."

1812 October 5. Ezra Canfield ALS to Mrs. Lucretia Canfield; [Batava].
(2 pages)
Misses wife and family, refers to the potential American assault on Canada; "the contry is full of troops marching on the toe lines from all quarters it seems to be the opinion here that there will bee at least seventy thousands that will make an attack upon the Canadas within twenty days…"

1812 October 11. Thomas Bodley CyS.
(1 page)
Copy of an appointment of James Bradshaw to Forage Master; "He will proceed on the purchase forage for the regt. and will receive information of the route from Col. Campbell…"

1812 October 14. John Reding, Jr. ADS; New Hampshire.
(2 pages)
Deposition regarding the capture of an American vessel, Abigail; "the sloop, having English Colours flying at the time, The Captain informed me he had a Protection against Capture by English Cruizers and Shew me a Licence from the British Government…" The crew believed that its load was English property and would be condemned if it entered the United States.

1812 October 18. Ezra Canfield ALS to Mrs. Lucretia Canfield; Lewistown.
(1 page)
Description of a battle between his regiment and British troops. Also describes confusion after the battle; "the british want a sesation of arms and they are not willing to give up our oficers unless our regiment may be dischargd…"

1812 October 27. Daniel D. Tompkins ALS to Peter Buell Porter; Buffalo, [New York].
(2 pages)
Porter will be given medical supplies for the sick and wounded in hospitals at Lewiston and Black-Rock, obtain receipts from the surgeons for the supplies, and deliver the receipts back to Col. Livingston. Tompkins then dismisses him as Quartermaster General [of the New York State Militia].

1812 October 29. Rebecca [Eustis] ALS to Abraham Eustis; Cambridge, [Massachusetts].
(3 pages)
Upset by delays in the mail which have caused her letters to not reach her Abraham before he marched for Plattsburg.Recently moved to Cambridge.Will not lie and say she is happy, but refuses to "tell you how miserable I am at intervals least it should clogg your military ardor."Hopeful for a cessation of hostilities, at least for the winter."It seems as if heaven had really frowned upon our ill-fated country ever since the Declaration of this ill-managed war."Family news, everyone anxious about him. Addressed to Major Abraham Eustis, Plattsburg.See also D. S. Townsend ALS to Abr[aha]m Eustis, August 29, 1820, located in the Michigan Collection .

1812 November 4. Thomas Buford LS to Thomas L. Butler; Lexington, [Kentucky].
(2 pages)
Congratulates Butler on his appointment as deputy quartermaster general and mentions supplies forwarded for the troops at Vincennes; "You have been pleased to advise me to procure and forward supplies of Provisions for the Troops at Vincennes," including flour, whiskey, soap, and candles.

1812 November 9. Broke, P[hilip] B[owes] Vere ALS to Dr. Hutchinson; Shannon, at sea.
(4 pages)
Harries the American Navy and expresses the need to humble the Americans; "The capture of poor Guerriere, tho by a very superior force will make the Yankees so insolent that perhaps they may force their ships to risque a battle - & they must be severely humbled before we can hope to make any peace with them, for their ignorance, conceit & rancour are at present beyond all bounds..."

1812 November 14. James Winchester ALS to John H. Piatt; Camp Miami [Maumee, Ohio].
(1 page)
Letter stressing the importance of obtaining supplies; "The necessity for accumulating supplies for the army at Fort Winchester increases…redouble your exertions to send on provisions - Salt - is indispensible to save our Beef that is falling every day - Liquor we have none of, on hand."

1812 November 15. Amos Stoddard ALS to Lt. Bryson; Pittsburgh, [Pennsylvania].
(1 page)
Regarding a paroled prisoner; "As I have found it impractiable to procure an experienced pilot at this place, to accompany a Public Boat to Cincinnati…I have availed myself of Lieutenant Darrah's offers of service on the occasion - and as he is a prisoner on parole, I have engaged, that he...be furnished with a public Horse to enable him to return over land."

1812 November 17. Samuel Preston ALS to Miner and Butler; Rockport, [Pennsylvania].
(4 pages)
Headlined "Thoughts on the President's Message Nov. 5th 1812." He lists 18 points, which includes criticism of Madison’s speech and comments on Hull’s failed invasion of Canada; "If J. Madison is reelected to select the members of the Military Tribunal, as the Prophet said to King Hezekiah, Gen'l Hull may set his house in order." Mentions matters pertaining to trade and politics.

1812 November 28. Thomas Pickney ALS to Thomas A. Smith; Head Quarters, Charleston, [South Carolina].
(3 pages)
Discusses the movement of regiments, specifically a Rifle Regiment and the 7th Regiment of Light Dragoons; includes another ALS, also from November 28, from Pickney to Smith on the subject.

1812 November 28. James W. Bryson ALS to Robert Patterson; Newport, Kentucky.
(1 page)
Regarding the movement of troops and supplies.

1812 December 7. John B. Campbell ALS to Robert Patterson; Camp at Dayton.
(1 page)
Request for horses to transport medical supplies, "not exceeding six with pack saddles, and lash ropes."

1812 December 12. Nathaniel Leonard DS; Niagara River.
(2 pages)
Certificate of damage to Thomas Hustler’s house through its use as a military hospital; "his dwelling house in Lewiston having been taken and kept as an hospital by the troops in the service of the United States." Appraisers have been appointed to reach a dollar amount, which assessed the damages to $300. Includes Hustler's endorsement from March 31, [1813].

1812 December 14. William H. Winder ALS to Henry Grindage; Black Rock, [New York].
(2 pages)
Winter quarters; "We have abandoned all design of active operations for this season on this part of the line." They have been allowed to return to Baltimore for the winter and praises the conduct of the young soldiers.

1812 December 15. Thomas Bodley ALS to Henry Brown; St. Marys.
(2 pages)
Encourages him to buy spare tonnage; "It is absolutely necessary that some person should purchase…Forage at Dayton…It is my wish you should Continue in the business." Requests money from Col. Patterson; "our boats have been frozen up & the troops in advancing are suffering..."

1812 December 23. James Monroe ALS to Unknown; Washington, [D.C.].
(2 pages)
Regarding the defense of Sackett’s Harbor, [New York]; mentioning American vessels built on Lake Ontario, "there is danger 'lest the enemy should…destroy them. This would be truly calamitous. I hope you have taken measures for their safety…"

1812 December 29. John B. Campbell ADS.
(1 page)
Order to furnish the sick; "The Quarter Master at Dayton or his agent will furnish every thing necessary for the medical department so that the situation of those who have suffered in defence of our Country's rights and honour may be rendered as Comfortable as possible, for which the surgeons attending will make return."

1812 - 1813. Receipts.
(6 pages)
Six receipts for such supplies as corn, flour, and the feeding of public horses.

1812 ca.. Inhabitants of New Gloucester, Maine DS; New Gloucester, [Maine].
(3 pages)
Measure, including 92 signatures, supporting active defense of the U.S. in the War of 1812; "we do hereby severally engage to consider ourselves, from this time, as ENROLLED AMONG THE DEFENDERS OF THIS COUNTRY, and that we will… hold ourselves in constant readiness to appear in the Field...when the call of our Government shall require our services."

1812. Receipts.
(9 pages)
Receipts.

1812-1813. Documents.
(3 pages)
Abstracts of purchases for the army.

[1812 ca.]. Connecticut Volunteers AD; [Fairfield, Connecticut].
(4 pages)
Proposed rules and regulations for the formation of a Volunteer Company of Musketry; "As soon as thirty or more men of the town of Fairfield shall have subscribed to this paper, on notice being given They shall assemble at some convenient place for the purpose of organising a volunteer comp. to serve during the war..."

[ca. 1812]. United States DS to The Wyandots of Solomons Town, [Ohio]; Quarter Master’s Department, North-Western Army.
(2 pages)
Money owed for beaver kill be General Tupper; "four Beever killed & made use of by General Tuppers detachments of Ohio Militia & estimated to weigh 1200 pounds by General Tupper..$48.00." Signed by William Henry Harrison.

1813 January 19. A. A. Albert Gallatin ALS to Thomas Newton; Treasury Department [Washington, D.C.].
(1 page)
Concerning the need to rebuild a lighthouse; "I have the honor to enclose the copy of a letter just received from the Collector of Wilmington N.Ca. under the circumstances stated by him; no other remedy appears efficient than the rebuilding of the light house in a safer place; and this cannot be done without a legislative sanction."

1813 January 25. John Cotton Smith Pr. DS to Elisha Hinsdale; Hartford, [Connecticut].
(1 page)
Appointment to Lieutenant of the Torrington Company of Volunteers.

1813 February 1. Samuel Gaxton ALS to Calvin Stebbins; Attica, [New York].
(3 pages)
Events in Canada since start of war; his experiences in camp has led him to "a full knowledge of the Conduct, of the great men of our Nations; or in other words the Men in Power; and suffer me to tell you that in my opinion they are leading us all to ruin." He mentions Hull's defeat and the "attempt of Smith to invade Canada; all fruitless..."

1813 February 10 and 1813 May 3. B.F. Stickney ALS, ADS to Jacob Fowler; McPherson’s Block House.
(12 pages)
Letter and warrant for Captain Lewis, a Shawnee Chief; "you have taken a retain a horse belonging to Capt Lewis. The horse was delivered to Lewis by order of Gen Harrison..as will appear by a certificate Lewis now holds." Includes a receipt for a horse pressed into public service dated May 3, 1813 for $60.

1813 February 11. John Armstrong DS; Department of War, [Washington, D.C.].
(1 page)
Order regarding payment of troops; "The paymaster is required to cause to be advanced to the officers non-commisioned officers and privates of two Regiments of militia, which have been called into service by Gov. Meigs in the State of Ohiol Two months pay and amoluments."

1813 February 25. Charles Wale Partially printed DS; Fort Royal, Martinique.
(2 pages)
License for safe passage for any unarmed American ship from New London (Conn.) to Fort Royal. Signed by Wale, the British Governor of Martinique. Tonnage endorsed on page two, for the Brig Godfry & Mary, New London, May 17, 1813.

1813 February 20. George Beale ADS to William Jones; Plattsburg, [New York].
(2 pages)
Regarding payment for provisions and "the payment of the officers and men on this station."

1813 February 20. Ohio Legislature Document; Groton.
(1 page)
Regarding the Lake Erie Tax for 1812; "A Tax Bill for the Proprieters in the 1st. Section in the Town of Groton in the County of huron, in the State of Ohio, in that part called firelands, and was Levyed by the Legislator…in, and for, the year 1812, which Tax is $28..78.- and each proprietors is as followeth."

1813 February 22. John Clopton ALS; Representative Chamber [Washington, D.C.].
(1 page)
Clopton, a U.S. Representative from Virginia, nominates George Kennon to be navy surgeon; "I have been requested to nominate Doctor George T. Kennon for the appointment of a surgeon in the navy. Though not personally acquainted with Doctor Kennon, such recommendations of him has been communicated to me that, I cannot hesitate in nominating him to you."

1813 February 23. W[illiam] Jones ALS to Manuel Eyre; Washington, [D.C.].
(2 pages)
Regarding the non-importation act; "Nothing could justify the measure but the conviction that it is or soon will be a mere nominal Act defeated by evasion and smuggling…"

1813 March 15. J. Broadus DS to Frederick Spofford; Boston, [Massachusetts].
(1 page)
Certificate of resignation as an ensign in the Massachusetts militia; he is honorably discharged.

1813 March 18. Joseph Lee Smith ALS to Joseph Kinney; Burlington, [Vermont].
(1 page)
Informing Kinney that he and ensign Brower are indispensable to the regiment going to Sackett’s Harbor, and to "keep your destination a secret."

1813 March 28. N. Sherwood ALS to Ezra Lewis.
(3 pages)
He has been drafted, but his brother has gone in his place; "Harrison our Noble Commander has at that place between Six and Seven Thousand Kentucky that Noble and Patriotic Stat, are Raising three Thousand Vollen Teers and their Governor is to Command in Person."

1813 April 5. E. I. DuPont ALS to John Hancock; Wilmington.
(1 page)
Concerning delayed shipments of gunpowder; "They would be exposed to Capture by Sea & There is not yet any line of waggons running between NYork & Boston…"

1813 April 25. H[erbert] Sawyer ALS to John Wilson Croker; Bath.
(11 pages)
Report on activities of the U.S. fleet off the American coast on the outbreak of the War of 1812.

1813 April 28. Return Jonathan Meigs ALS to Col. Enos; Franklinton, [Ohio].
(1 page)
Orders for men to search countryside for Native Americans; "Understanding that the frontiers of your Regiment are apprehensive of Danger from the Indians…you are authorized to detach from your Regiment - One Company - to scour the Country on your frontier in that Direction..."

Box 3

1813 May 1. Sir John Borlase Warren ALS to George Cockburn; H.M.S. San Domingo off Swamp Point.
(3 pages)
Regarding operations along the Chesapeake shore; discusses a prisoner exchange, mentions Baltimore and Annapolis.

1813 May 1. Simon Larned ALS to Charles Larned; Cantonment Greenbush, [New York].
(3 pages)
Regarding family news and troop movements; "The troops from all Quarters are moving to Buffaloe [sic] & Sackets Harbour…I think however we shall soon have permanent foothold on Canada side of the Lake. The Recruiting service the last winter has been very successfull."

1813 May 9. [Manuel Eyre] ADf to [William Jones]; Philadelphia, [Pennsylvania].
(6 pages)
Concerns the defense of Philadelphia; approximately $30,000 funds will be appropriated for this purpose. Includes a partial list of resolutions pertaining to the defense.

1813 May 9 and 1813 May 10. Jacob Baker ALS to Isaac Launch; Fort Nelson [near Portsmouth, Virginia].
(3 pages)
Description of Norfolk and Fort Nelson; "I had hoped to find Norfolk a neat and tolerable well built city but I believe I am to be disapointed in every town on this side of the ridge." Describes the building and the effect of the tide; "we are about a mile below Portsmouth in the rear of Fort Nelson a strong and most excellent fortification."

1813 May 17. [Manuel Eyre] ADf to [William Jones]; Philadelphia, [Pennsylvania].
(3 pages)
Regarding the defense of Philadelphia1813 May 19. Pearl Spofford ALS to Frederick Spofford; Portland, [Maine]. 2 pages. Discusses the risks and rewards of trade during wartime; "no more goods can be had without giving an enormous price."

1813 May 25. Morris Smith Miller ALS to [William Meredith]; Washington, [D.C.].
(1 page)
Forwarding letters and best wishes.1813 May 26. John Christian, Jr. ALS to Jacob Van Lear; Augusta County, [Virginia]. 3 pages. Selecting a captain; Major Henderson has resigned and Captain Abney has assumed Henderson's former post, and thus they will be left without a captain "and it is no known what will be done with us…there is also a report that General Harrison has had a battle with the Indians and has killed and taken a great number of them..."

[1813 June 3, delivered]. Manuscript speech.
(10 pages)
Critical speech against the war with England, "Read at Petersham before Washington Benevolent Society of Barre". The writer questions the motives and justifications for war.

1813 June 4. E. L. Shittock ALS to General Woolsey; Sackett’s Harbor, [New York].
(2 pages)
Pleas for supplies and updates on recent war events; "we have been anxiously expecting their arrival long before this…Our men are quite naked & extreemly in want of Clothing…due for Godsake forward them on with all possible expedition, on the most direct road--if it should not be possible to send all on at once..."

1813 June 5. State Garrison of Lt. Col. Warburton DS; Amherstburg, [Ontario].
(1 page)
Details of number of troops, officers, and stations for Warburton’s garrison.

1813 June 8. Thomas Gholson ALS to Robert Brint [Brent].
(1 page)
Regarding two claims for deceased soldiers; "It is possible the returns from the pay master may cover these two cases. Will you do me the particular favor to address to me a few lines on the situation of these claims?"

1813 June 18. Sir Francis Freeling LS to C. Saverland, Sr.; London, [England].
(2 pages)
Remuneration offered to captains for losses sustained by vessels commanded by Captain Bell and Captain Rogers during missions on the American coast; Bell has been awarded £350 and Rogers £300.

1813 July 6. William Abney ALS to Jacob Vanlear; Augusta County, [Virginia].
(2 pages)
Responds to Vanlear's news of false alarms in army camps; "that is what takes place frequently in an army sometimes through desighn in order to try the men that they may be better acquainted how to manage in case the alarm at any time should move to be true."

1813 July 6. Samuel P. Fitch ALS to Theophilus W. Fitch; New London, [Connecticut].
(3 pages)
Discusses Stephen Decatur’s squadron being chased into New London harbor by British, an engagement to repel British, and submarine warfare.

1813 July 10. Morris Smith Miller ALS to William Meredith; Washington, [D.C.].
(3 pages)
Representative Miller of New York discusses taxes; "You will have observed the course which our friends have adopted in regard to the taxes: the balance of opinion…that the Taxes did not afford a fair opportunity for [canvassing] the great question of peace or war. -It is expected that the President willl answer Webster on Monday..."

1813 July 11. Ninian Pinkney ALS to Henry Dearborn; Niagara.
(3 pages)
Pinkney’s suggestions about Dearborn’s camp have been put in place, such as "removing the prisoners from the Hospitals as fast as they recovered, removing the Sick & wounded of our army, drawing in Troops from the Town to Camp…"

1813 July 13. Ninian Pinkney ALS to Henry Dearborn; Niagara.
(2 pages)
Pinkney, a junior officer in the 5th regiment, provides a report on the regiment and recruiting new men; "I…will consider it a favour if you will permit me now or after the termination of the pending events…to attend to the Recruiting Service, or to report myself to the Secretary of War, as you may think most proper..."

1813 July 15. Phineas Hammond ALS to Mrs. Phineas Hammond; Cantonment Burlington.
(4 pages)
News of what he has done in the army since he left home. He belongs to a force of 6,000 men; "I have good reason to suppose that an attack is meditated on the enemy by us, in considerable force (probably in Montreal) the issue is doubtful being untried, but I have little reason to doubt the end of a conflict of that kind, whose foundation is justice, and whose aim is peace. Yesterday we had one man shot for repeated desertion." Includes a memo by Margeret Porter from New Castle concerning Phineas Hammond.

1813 July 18. Noah Morrison ALS to Hamilton McColester; Buffalo, [New York].
(3 pages)
Account of local attack by British; "about three hundred of the British came acrost about three miles below Buffalo at Black Rock burnt the Barrick Spickt & carried away all the cannon…the Indians raised the Yell and commenced the fire So hot that the enemy were obliged to retrete in considerable of a hurry..." He lists his estimates of the casualties, includes postscript of a dangerous experience in Canada.

1813 July 23. William Abney ALS to Jacob Vanlear; Augusta County, [Virginia].
(5 pages)
Local news, British shipping, expecting an Indian attack.

1813 July 24. Tho[ma]s B. Abercrombie ALS to W. Meredith; Philadelphia, [Pennsylvania].
(1 page)
Recommending the wife and children of Walter Allison, who is a volunteer soldier, for aid; Meredith is part of a committee whose purpose is to assist the wives and children of volunteers under Col. Rush.

1813 July 27. Amos Binney DS to Nathaniel Cushing.
(1 page)
Contract for the purchase of anchors for the Navy; 'the said Nathaniel Cushing hath agreed…to furnish for the United States Navy Department and to deliver at the Navy Yard in Charlestown…the following number, sizes, & description of Anchors and at the prices herein named..." by March 1, 1814.

1813 August 6. Decius Wadsworth ALS to John M. Taylor; Ordnance Department, Washington, [D.C.].
(1 page)
Artillery and ammunition under order for the Northern Frontier.

1813 August 8. Elizabeth Lee ALS to Mary L. Sparhawk; Templeton, [Massachusetts].
(1 page)
News of her husband who is serving in the Navy; he had sailed for Cadiz, captured and sent to England; "I received letter from him a few days ago since the latest dated Liverpool 12th May, he was then in food health & expected soon to have his ship in possession..."

1813 August 9 and 1813 August 16. Col. William A. Daingerfield, Brig. Gen. Young, et al.
(2 pages)
Recommendations for Thomas Monroe for military appointment; "[much] has been his moral character…that I…believe him worthy of an appointment in my [department] of the military service of the United States…"

1813 August 11. John Black ALS to Pearl Spofford and Frederick Spofford; Goldsboro, [Maine?].
(1 page)
Trade with Boston; he requests that barrels of pork and tobacco leaves be sent. Includes and ANS of Thos. Cobb requesting grass seeds.

1813 August 13. [Pearl Spofford] [pseud] Peter Pinder ALS to Pearl Spofford and Frederick Spofford; St. John, [Maine].
(3 pages)
Discusses trade in Canada, probably illicit, during the war; "pay good attention to our business as the times look (to me) very Black."

1813 August 17. George Armistead ALS to Capt. Callender Irvin; Fort Niagara, New York.
(2 pages)
Concerning the theft of two horses, a nearby Native American tribe’s discontent, and a British mutiny; "A Mutiny was on foot in the british Garrison which has just been discover'd & repressed it was to have taken place this evening; there intention was to have murdered all the officers burnt the Garrison plundered & burnt West Niagara...they would have met with a warm reception from our cannon & muskets."

1813 September 1. A. S. Brooks ALS to Westport, Massachusetts Selectmen; Fort George.
(1 page)
Regarding land and pay left by the deceased Joseph Brownell; Brooks has his pay and after settling his accounts has money remaining and requests that any friends authorized to receive it to inform him. He had enlisted for 5 years and "is of course entitled to 100 acres of land."

1813 September 4. William Duane ANS to Callender Irvine; Adjutant General’s Office.
(1 page)
“I must decline doing what is proper and correct...”

1813 September 5. Joseph W. Lawrence DS; Geneseo, [New York].
(2 pages)
Orders for regiments in the 39th Brigade, including a list of the detachment of various captains, ensigns, lieutenants, and other soldiers from specific regiments. "The commandant of the 39th Brigade…confidently hopes and sincerely believes that the above orders will meet with promt and strict obedience."

1813 September 7. Alexander Neef ALS to Andrew W. Bell; Burlington, [Vermont].
(2 pages)
Description of a naval expedition and his naval force, with a list of ships and guns.

1813 September 18. Nathaniel Z. Platt DS to Melancthon Woosley; Plattsburg, [New York].
(2 pages)
Contract to build two store houses; "Platt of Plattsburgh arees to Build for the United States Two Storehouses of the following dimensions…" It is certified on verso by Woosley, dated January 5, 1814, who states "I conceive this Contract as fulfilled."

1813 September 23. James Madison LS to John Mason; Montpelier, [Orange, Virginia].
(4 pages)
Regarding the harsh treatment of American prisoners of war at Halifax; "The encouragement which the Enimy seem to derive from our reluctance to retaliate their cruelty towards our military citizens in captivity, requires that an appeal should be made without delay, to their feelings for their own unfortunate people, as they have none for ours." He orders British prisoners to be placed under "a rigor of treatment" similar to those towards America prisoners.

1813 September 24. Ferdinand L[eigh] Claiborne ALS to Lieutenant [James?] Bayley [Bailey?]; St. Ste[ph]ens, [Alabama].
(2 pages)
Directions on gathering corn, pumpkins, and guarding their horses while at pasture at Col. [James] Caller’s (1758-1819) plantation."When your Horses are feeding in the field you must keep a pickett guard near them, in order to prevent straggleing parties of Indians from stealing them; and also a guard & sentinels a sufficient distance from the house to notify you of the approach of an enemy."Orders Bailey to retreat if they "hear of a body of Indians such as might probably jeopardize your horses." "There are circumstances that may occur, but are not calculated on; however in time of war and near an enemy a good soldier ought at all times be on his guard."Being sent to Coller’s in order to ready horses for battle, and advises Bailey to take good care of them and prevent any soldier from harming the property."Should any of your command be so lost to the honorable principles becoming a soldier, as to violate this order you will after dismounting him and taking from him his equipments, send him forward under guard with the charges and witnesses, to Mount Vernon to be tried by a court Martial."Includes an order for the Quarter Master to provide Bailey with a wagon for transport.

1813 September 29. James Madison ALS to John Mason; Montpelier, [Orange, Virginia].
(1 page)
Concerning the detention of seamen on British ships when war was declared; "The…detention of our Seamen who were on board British Ships when war was declared, will engage particular attention." He goes on to mention "the effect of their Testimony in proclaiming the cruelties they have suffered..."

1813 October 5. William Duane ALS to Callender Irvine; Philadelphia, [Pennsylvania].
(3 pages)
Concerning Army news, including efforts to protect the Delaware River and the duty and conduct of officers.

1813 October 7. William Duane ALS to John M. Taylor; Adjutant General’s Office.
(1 page)
Issuing artillery; he orders 50 blank rounds and 50 rounds fixed ammunition to be allocated for each gun, and gives further orders regarding the movement of ammunition.

1813 October 15. Daniel Rose ALS to Orchard Cook; Camp Chalaugay [Châteauguay, Quebec].
(1 page)
Movement of army; "I inclose a sketch of the movements of this army from Burlington to this place, the, tract of the army is marked with blue." Requests that Mr. [McClintock] see the sketch.

1813 October 23. Bailey and Willis ALS to Daniel Sheldon, Jr.; New York.
(4 pages)
Discusses the running of the British blockade and gives instructions for Sheldon upon his arrival in Havana. Lists the prices of commodities, including coffee, brown sugar, and molasses.

1813 October 24. A[ndrew] T. Goodrich ALS to Sarah M. Goodrich; New York.
(3 pages)
[Note: Original located in the Andrew T. Goodrich family correspondence.]
New York’s celebration of war victories; "I informed you before that the City Hall was to be lighted on the last evening in honor of our recent victories…" He mentions Tammany Hall, Washington Hall, and the American Museum. In front of City Hall were placed "representations of all the various naval actions that have taken place during the war..."

1813 October 28. John Monroe LS to David B. Mitchell; U.S. Department of State.
(5 pages)
Mitchell, the former governor of Georgia, has accepted Monroe's invitation to command forces attacking Creeks. Monroe describes the force and correspondence with the Governor of Tennessee [Willie Blount]. "The exposed situation of New Orleans, the probability that the enemy may make an attempt to take possession of it, and of other parts of that Country...increased by a knowledge that an expedition has been lately equipped from Halifax, necessarily draws our attention to that quarter."

1813 November 9. Thomas Barcley Pr. DS; New York.
(1 page)
Regarding exchange of American prisoner James Cernon, "late mate of the American vessel St Augustin."

1813 November 10. Robert Troup ALS to Abraham Van Vechten; Geneva, [New York].
(4 pages)
Reports from Fort George and of Harrison and McClure preparing to attack Burlington. "Harison has only between 7 & 800 men with him - and they are said to be in the most miserable plight, and when they joined the troops at Fort George to resemble a moving hospital rather than a corps of efficient men." Requests information concerning opinions from Albany on the Montreal expedition and laments the death of [Jean Victor Marie] Moreau.

1813 November 23. David Breasley ALS to John Armstrong; Camp F[ort] Mills.
(2 pages)
Discusses the conduct of his regiment's paymaster and recommends "the Appointment of Second Lieut. Daniel Bunch as P. Master of the 15th Regiment."

1813 November 24. Ferdinand Leigh Claiborne DS to John T. Wirt; Fort Claiborne, [Alabama].
(2 pages)
Regarding payment for articles purchased as presents to the "Indian Chief Pushmatahaw [Pushmataha] & other of his Warriors" by the order of Brigadier General Claiborne. Includes the acknowledged receipt of $113.82 and "three-fourths in full of the above account."

1813 November 29.. John M. Garnett ALS to Archibald R. S. Hunter; Loretto, [Virginia].
(3 pages)
Mentions the blockade; "We are…closely blockaded by his Satanic majesty's ships na dunable to sell a bushel of corn or wheat." Expresses outrage at non-patriotism of pacifists; "men [who] are lost to every feeling of patriotism nad sense of duty to their country - men who are avowed apologists of every crime and outrage perpetrated against us..."

1813 December 4. Abraham Shoemaker, Jr. ALS to Charles Thomson; Philadelphia, [Pennsylvania].
(2 pages)
Regarding rent payments; "The young gentleman in whose favor, at my request, you signed a recommendation for a commission in the army received a lieutenancy and serves in that capacity at Fort George, N.C. He has been promoted to a Captaincy in the 15 Reg. U.S. Inf.y and is now attached to Genl. Wilkinson's Army on the frontier of Canada.

1813 December 8. Maskline Clark partially printed document to William Simmons; [Dover, Delaware].
(1 page)
"The United States in account current with Lieut. Maskline Clark Jr. of the 32d Regiment U.S. Infantry."Lists expenses of Lieutenant Clark of the 32nd Regiment, U.S. Infantry."Cash paid for contingencies," including drummers, men to play the fife, prison fees for deserters, and housing. Also, expenses incurred for wood, straw, and repairs to the barracks.

1813 December 20. Stephen Decatur LS to William Jones; U.S. Ship United States , New London, [Connecticut].
(4 pages)
Trapped in the harbor by British ships, Decatur decribes the actions of Nathaniel Seuter, a lawyer and captain in the 25th Regiment of the Rhode Island Infantry, visiting the British ships; "He admitted without hesitation, that he intedned to go on board the blockading ships for the purpose of taking is wife to see them."

1813 December 20. George Murray ALS to Return Jonathan Meigs.
(1 page)
Petition to cancel fine levied upon him for not serving in Militia, "by reson of my sore affliction at that time…I had a very soreness and [pang] in my brest and lung…[I] hope that you will have compassion..."

1813 December 21. William Groves ALS to William Carner; Philadelphia, [Pennsylvania].
(1 page)
Description of Philadelphia meeting where it was voted to dump tea overboard to protest American war-time profiteering; "Upwards of 500 people Attended And they...agread to do with out Sugar Tea & Coffe...Before we Ajurned one moved that the Tea be thrown over Board witch was Carried Unanimes…our men are going well at the Suthard they have gained Anothe victory over the ingins killd 250...Good news Just Arrived there is An embarg Laid."

1813 December 24. William Reed ALS; Washington, [D.C.].
(2 pages)
Regarding Madison’s administration; "We have not the slightest estimation of a change of Temper in the Administration - or…from any quarter. A gloomy stupidity seems to pervade them on every question of general policy. no business of importance has been undertaken in either house since the passage of this suicidal Embargo - The Absence of the Secy of War checks any efforts for correcting or improving that Department."

1813 December 25 to 1814 January 3. United States Army. 5 Manuscripts.
(5 pages)
Regarding payment for use of the Mohawk and Seneca Turnpike and passage over the Cayuga Bridge.

[1813]. John McNiel, Jr. Cy to Francis Cogswell.
(1 page)
Regarding military accounts and infantry regiment recruitment; "officers on the recruiting service must be…careful not to enlist…disordered persons…"

[1813]. Zenas Stebbins ALS to John T. Apthorp.
(2 pages)
Requesting pay; "Please to pay…the money that is dew to me for transporting my Pieces to [Amherst]…" Includes list of 59 soldiers in Stebbins' company of Massachusetts Artillery.

1813. 10 Manuscripts.
(13 pages)
Receipts, etc.

1813. 4 Manuscripts.
(6 pages)
Accounts.

1813. 15 Manuscripts.
(15 pages)
Receipts.

1814 January 8. Joseph Wiggin ALS to James Monroe; New York, [New York].
(3 pages)
Regarding the attempt to obtain a passport; "I came to this City from Barton for to embark…for England, being informed that Govt would not be very - particular, in giving passports, under circumstances which had no connection with political events, and where necessity required the same."

1814 January 12. Rawstorne Wilson and Wilson ALS to Rowson and Son; Preston.
(1 page)
Regarding supply vacancies in the local militia.

1814 January 18. Samuel Tupper ALS to Augustus Porter; Le Roy.
(3 pages)
Describes the burning of the city he was in; "I send you few Papers enclosed herewith which are all that I saved from the flames…I arrived at Buffaloe four daus before it was burnt with all my Papers Packed…"

1814 January 19. Philip Mathewson ALS to Jeffery Mathewson; Hamilton, [New York].
(3 pages)
[Note: Original located in the Mathewson family papers.]
Discusses movement of local militia, describes sickness in the community, prices for food; "our militia here have been called out this fall Destined for Sackets harbour & ware marched to Brown Ville ten miles this side the harbour…"

1814 January 25. William Jones LS to Thomas Manning and James Shapley; Treasury Department [Washington, D.C.].
(3 pages)
Concerning the bounty of 21 prisoners captured and brought in by the vessel Fox, "as allowed by the act of the 2d of August last. It is considered that this bounty is not payable except upon prisoners as well captured, as brought in and delivered over, after the date of the act." Requests proof that the capture was made after August 2nd, and evidence of their being authorized to receive the money "in behalf of the owners, officers, and crew of the Fox when it will be paid."

1814 February 3. Gordon Drummond DS. Kingston, [Canada].
(10 pages)
Proceedings of the Court Martial of Israel Elsworth for deserting the 2nd Regiment Leed’s Militia.Lists the members of the Court Martial.Includes Elsworth’s testimony describing his settlement in Canada, his draft into the militia, and efforts by Doctor Schofield to acquire his farm.Schofield stated he held a commission in the militia and had authority, that "the people of the States would overcome the British Government in Upper Canada," and thus Elsworth could return to the United States.Signed by Edward Walker and John Ferguson, Judge and President of the Court Martial.Approved and signed by Gordon Drummond.

1814 February 6. Henry Burbeck ALS to Constant Freeman; New London, [Connecticut].
(1 page)
Drawing rations; "Will you inform me whether General [Thomas] Cushing draws double rations for the command of the District, or the Commanding Officer of Fort Independence and wether he [signs] a Certificate on his subsistance Account to this effect." Burbeck certifies that he was the commanding officer at Independence and that the pay master has a certificate to that effect.

1814 February 11. Thomas Tingey LS to James Beatty; Navy Yard, Washington [D.C.].
(1 page)
Refers to items for John Cannon for two sloops; enclosed are Cannon's receipt for "Sundry articles forwarded by his Waggons for the two sloops…The boxes & Barrels being Masked with their contints." He will write two captains designating what is intended for each.

1814 February 13. James Wilkinson LS to Thomas A. Smith; Camp French Mills [Covington, New York].
(2 pages)
Plan to attack Prescot and Kingston, encloses an order regarding a change of command, and congratulates Smith on his promotion. "You are to understand that all the movement in and from this quarter have been directed by the Secretary of War, at the very time I had nearly completed my arrangements to Storm Prescot and attack Kingston."

1814 February 14 [Ragan V. Radis?] ALS to William Rhinelander & Co
(1 page)
Sugar market is doing poorly. "Our Sugar Refiners have generally stopt working." Notes prices for loaf sugar, lump sugar, and molasses. Hopeful that molasses may have better sales soon, but "as our market so much depends on our political affairs makes it impossible for us to say what it may be in the spring."

1814 February 18. John Todd ALS to Francis Catterson.
(2 pages)
Request for money; "I stand in Need of a few Dolars I wish you to Send to me Eight or ten by James and Charge it to my account…" Includes receipt on back signed by James Todd stating that ten dollars was received.

1814 February 21. William Onderdonk, Jr. ALS to Henry F. Jones; New York.
(3 pages)
Bill for a schooner and news of its capture; "You will receive enclosed the bill…for Schooner Attach & cargo amounting to $255…I am very much mortified to inform you of the capture of this Schooner, & what renders it the more mortifying, is, that she was taken up the river Mississippi 12 miles above the bar & after she had passed Fort Charles, from which one Shabby General Flournoy thought it expedient to withdraw his men, which gave the enemy an undisturbed possession of the river..."

1814 March 7. Sir Phineas Riall ALS to Sir Gordon Drummond; Niagara Frontier.
(2 pages)
Intelligence of military defeat [the Battle of Longwoods]; encloses a report made by Captain [Alexander] Stewart. "I regret to say that our loss has been very great considering the Numbers we had engaged, and that notwithstanding the Gallantry displayed on the occasion they were obliged to retire owing to the very superior Force of the enemy." Folder includes a one-page ADS return of casualties from Alexander Stewart dated March 5, 1814.

1814 March 10. R[uggles] Hubbard ALS to Thomas H. Hubbard; Albany, [New York].
(3 pages)
Anti-Federalist, Hawkish political sentiments; "I eat no 'dirty bread…from the Stagnant pools & ditche of the Commonwealth' and am a minute man to take up arms as before against Madison and in favour of a Northern President."

1814 March 11. James Simpson ALS to William R. Smith; Huntingdon.
(1 page)
List of militia men in the Second Company of the 33rd Regiment who failed to perform military service; "who being notified to meet at Alexandria on the thirteenth of April 1813 to perform a tour of Duty in Service of the united States and Did not perform Said tour nor Send Substitutes."

1814 March 21. Joseph Loring DS to Samuel Hodges; Boston, [Massachusetts].
(2 pages)
Orders addressed to Lt. Hodges and Lt. Manning; Hodges will relieve Lt. Lewis until further orders, and Manning will proceed with recruits to Captain Tillebrown's Company and eventually join a force under the command of Major Putnam. Includes orders to other men.

1814 March 26. Will Williams DS to [James] McCloskey; Detroit.
(1 page)
Requesting the bearer of the note be paid twelve dollars "for forty two pounds of sugar for the use of the Hospital."
Signed by Will Williams, Hosp[ita]l Surg[eon] Mate. With United States DS to Kebiasse; Detroit; 1 page; March 26, 1814. Receipt for $12 paid by the United States government to "Kebiasse an indian" for 42 pounds of sugar to be used in the Detroit hospital.
Acknowledges receipt of the money from James McCloskey, A[ssistant] D[eputy] Q[uarter] M[aster] G[e]n[era]l.
Includes Kebiasse's mark, witnessed by John Roby.

Box 4

1814 April 9. Alexander Macomb ALS to Thomas Macdonough.
(2 pages)
News from General Wilkinson; he has been informed "that the enimy meditate some enterprizes on the lake with their flotilla." Requests that Macdonough inform him of his situation and he will try to protect him from the enemy's enterprizes. He can bring 1000 men into the field in case of attack.

1814 April 13. United States Treasury Pr. DS to Richard Cairns.
(1 page)
Pay of Richard Cairns, a corporal in Captain Joseph Cairns' Company of the 27th U.S. Infantry Regiment. He was "regularly discharged on the 6th day of April 1814 his term of service having expired on the 29th day of March 1814."

1814 April 19. Edmund Pendleton Gaines ALS to Dr. Thomas; Sackett's Harbor, [New York].
(2 pages)
Orders to report to Major Hindman of the 2nd Artillery to serve as surgeon "until he shall be supplied with a surgeon or s. mate."

1814 April 25. John Armstrong LS to William Jones; War Department.
(2 pages)
Regarding Detroit and Michigan, army movements; "Should the Enemy reinstate himself on the Eastern-banks of the Detroit and the Huron - it's return would necessarily be much jeopardized. On the 27th Ultimo there was no force of the Enemy within 130 miles of the Detroit."

May 7, 1814. James Gibson ALS to Callender Irvine; Lancaster, [Pennsylvania].
(1 page)
Drawing money from the banks; he sends a check for Captain Irvine for $4,500, "which I wish him to get in American gold or Eastern Notes, as I am informed that Drafts on the Banks in [Philadelphia], or Notes, will not pass among the Yankees without a discount." Inquires on the best way to send him the money should he have already left Philadelphia.

1814 May 13. Alexander Neef ALS to Andrew W. Bell; Cantonment Plattsburg [New York].
(3 pages)
Account of his expedition into Canada; "the British fleet have Gone towards the head of the lake, probably their intention is to Blockade our fleet…" He describes the make-up of both British and American forces, and expects American victory on the lake is the force is ready for the lake. Expects to be ordered to the recruitment service soon.

1814 May 31. John Armstrong, Jr. LS to Isaac Shelby; War Department.
(1 page)
Shelby has been appointed a commission to treatCass with North Western Native American’s; "In this mission you will be associated with General Harrison and Governor [Lewis] ." Harrison will decide the time and place for the commission to meet with them, "and you will please to communicate with him for that purpose."

1814 June 3. Samuel Franklin DS; Portland, [Maine].
(2 pages)
Report of British prisoners brought to Portland by the schooner Mammoth, "whereof Samuel Franklin is master." Includes such information as name, rank, from what vessel captured, and national affiliation.

1814 June 16. Alexander Neef ALS to Andrew W. Bell; Champlain.
(3 pages)
Eyewitness account of the Second Battle of Lacolle Mills; "the enemy were completely vanquish'd, and only waited a summons from our Genl. to have surrendered…"

1814 June 19. Sir Phineas Riall ALS to Sir Gordon Drummond; Fort George.
(1 page)
Captain Norton has requested that wampum to be transmitted to "His Excellency the [Commander] of the Forces." Includes a 4-page ALS report of affairs from Riall [to Drummond] regarding Upper Canada and relations with Five Nations

1814 June 20 to 1814 December 20. Andrew Jackson ADS; Fayetteville, [Tennessee].
(1 page)
Muster Roll of a company under James Blackemore.

1814 June 21. John Armstrong, Jr. LS to John H. Piatt; War Department.
(1 page)
Referring to him request for supplies for prisoners of war; "The Commisary General for Prisoners of War has applied to this Department to furnish rations for the prisoners on their march to the frontier, and has been referred to you for such suplies as he may require - the amount of which must be charged to him, as the prisoners are not supplied by this Department."

1814 June 25. John H. Sheppard ALS to Mrs. S. Sheppard; Wiscasset, [Maine].
(3 pages)
Discusses English prisoners brought to town and the inability of the British to land; there is "general alarm excited on this coast & particularly…by English Ships & barges." Includes a small map.

1814 July 7. George Izard ALS to Thomas A. Smith; Camp near Plattsburg, [New York].
(1 page)
Concerning Col. Tobias Lear, commissioned to arrange a prisoner exchange. The British commander that he is supposed to meet with "has been delayed at Albany, but will probably arrive in the Course of two or three days..." He is surprised that he has not seen more deserters.

1814 July 16. Richard W. Lawrence AL to John L. Lawrence; Lisbon, Portugal.
(3 pages)
Concerning the forthcoming Congress of Ghent; "As a young Diplomatist it would be certainly very desirable to be present at the Congress at Ghent; but it is apprehended here by many of our Countrymen that out Commisioners will have little else to do in that business than to sign such a Treaty as their opponent may think proper to form for them..."

1814 July 22. Samuel Dickinson DS to Elijah Dickinson; Bermuda.
(9 pages)
Regarding loss of the schooner Swan & Eliza; also includes an invoice of goods shipped on board the ship dated January 16, 1814.

1814 July 26. Eben[ezer] Judd ALS to Hubbard Grave.
(1 page)
Beacon light warning system has been ordered by the Captain General to be set up in case of British attack; he mentions them being set up in multiple towns long the sea board, including Long Hill [Connecticut].

1814 July 27, 1814 September 15, and 1815 March 2. John Le Counter 3 ALsS to William Robinson; Queenston, Chippewa, and Montréal, [Quebec].
(11 pages)
Regarding the Battle of Lundy’s Lane.

1814 August 7. Sir Henry Edward Bunbury ACyS to Lord Bathurst.
(8 pages)
Bunbury, the Under-Secretary of State for War and the Colonies, provides his reasons for objecting to the proposed expedition to New Orleans; "I now venture to submit to you…the principal reasons which incline me to think that it would be better & safer for The King's Service that the Enterprize should be deferred."

1814 August 10. J[oseph] Williamson ALS to Norman Williams; Bangor, [Maine].
(3 pages)
People of Maine anxious for peace suffering from blockade; Coastal towns threatened with invasion; Comments on Brown’s victory, and mentions that "I have but little hopes of peace since the downfall of Bonaparte."

1814 August 20. Nathaniel Taylor ALS to Patrick Taylor; Kingston, [Ontario].
(4 pages)
Describes march under hard conditions from Montreal to Kingston; "the Commander of the Forces was at Montreal when we arrived & saw us next morning in a field adjaecent to the Town: it is a large papulous fine Town with good streets & regular: plenty of everything but the war makes all things extremely dear."

1814 August 30. [Manuel Eyre] ADf to [William Jones].
(5 pages)
Report and resolutions from the Committee for the Defense of Philadelphia; "we are authorized to call upon you for such aid in resisting any attack from the enemy as will be consistent with the duties of your department to grant considering the aid of Naval resources and the personal services of the Officers seamen & Marines..."

1814 August 30. Edmund Palmer ALS to John Wilson Croker; HMS Hebrus on the Patuxent [Maryland].
(2 pages)
Regarding the burning of War Department in Washington and a model of field magazine saved from destruction; "At the destruction of the public Works at Washington, it fell to me to burn the War Office, and amongst two or three things which I saved from the flames, is the accompanying model, which appears to be intended as a kind of field magazine for powder."

[post 1814 August]. Schuylkill and ---- Counties, [Pennsylvania] Df; [Pennsylvania].
(3 pages)
Meeting minutes; draft of resolutions regarding British depredations and county offices, decries the conduct of the British military, particularly in the burning of Washington. Resolutions include establishing a Committee of Correspondence and the election of "two Candidates for Congress, eight Candidates, for the General Assembly of this Commonwealth and six Candidates for Auditors of this County."

1814 September 1. National Intelligence Pr. Document; Washington, D.C.
(4 pages)
1870s newspaper of material related to War of 1812 taken from a National Intelligence Officer. Includes an account of the capture of Washington and the Battle of Fort Erie.

1814 September 2. William Onderdonk ALS to Henry F. Jones; New York.
(2 pages)
Camp life; "I asure you we presented rather a formidable appearance, we were under arms the whole day & marched about five or six miles…we are now in the service of Uncle Sam…I have been with our company to work & the fortifications at Harlaem; in a short time we expect to have an army of militia in & about this city of nearly twenty five thousand men."

1814 September 10. State of Rhode Island Document to Asahel Hawkins; Gloucester, Rhode Island.
(1 pages)
Receipt of 57 cents for tax upon Hawkins' property, "under the act of congress passed the 2d August, 1813, to lay and collect a direct tax within the United States."

1814 September 11. Henry Sewall ALS to Samuel Payson; Augusta, [Maine].
(1 page)
Troop movements in Maine; he has sent orders for troops to march for Wiscasset and for three regiments to follow them. "On their arrival they will take orders from Gen. Payson or King as the case may be."

1814 September 12. Thomas Gooding ALS to Eben Parsons; Boston, [Massachusetts].
(1 page)
Discusses people fleeing Boston and the likelihood of British attacking the city; "For my own part I do not fear it for many reasons. The Object is so small (say the destruction of the Navy Yard & the two Ships of War) the British would never be willing to sacrifice 3 or 4000 Men to accomplish it..." If in fact it does occur, he hopes it would not take place for at least 48 hours, in which time they could have the [hulks] sunk.

1814 September 14. Francis L. Coxe ADS; Philadelphia, [Pennsylvania].
(1 page)
Committee of Defense request to Secretary of the Navy [William Jones] to allow seamen to remain in the city. Also requests guns and ammunition.

post 1814 September 14. Manuscript song.
(1 page)
"The Battel of Baltimore" set to the tune of Yankee Doodle.

1814 September 15. Jacob Wentz DS to David Thomas .
(1 page)
Orders to march to the Delaware; "you are hereby required personally or by a sufficient substitute, to appear properly armed and equipped…for service, at [Flourtown]…to march immediately for the Delaware."

1814 September 18. Zenas Stebbins DS; Blechertown, [Massachusetts].
(1 page)
Provision return for company of artillery; includes table of the number of men per rank, number of days, and number of rations.

1814 September 21. Zenas Steebins DS; Blechertown, [Massachusetts].
(1 page)
Provision return for company of artillery; includes table of the number of men per rank, number of days, and number of rations.

1814 September 22. U.S. Heath ADS to Joseph Hopper Nicholson
(1 page)
Orders to attend sermon by Dr. Inglish offering thanks for divine protection in the battle of Baltimore; Inglish had offered his church to officers and delivered a sermon to the 1st Regiment of Artillery. Troops will parade on Washington square.

1814 September 24. Thomas W. Morris ALS to Ann W. Morris; Camp Brandywine.
(2 pages)
Camp life; he has started his duties as secretary, and "this day received the agreeable intelligence of the victory at Erie the late victories has had a great effect on the Men & sight of the English is anxiously wished for…"

1814 October 2. Henry Denison ALS & 3 Documents to A. Glennie, Son and Co.; Ashburton [London, England].
(8 pages)
Speculates on the status of 45 American prisoners on board the Cartel St. Philip, requests an order of clothing for those about to embark. Includes list of supplies for "the supply of Prisoners belonging to the U.S. Navy, about to embark for the U. States in the Cartel St. Philip," including blankets, trousers, and jackets. With three documents with names of Dartmoor prisoners and money and clothing given to them.

1814 October 6. New York State Militia 20th Regiment AD; Sackett’s Harbor, [New York].
(1 page)
Payroll for a company of New York Militia commanded by Capt. Ira Hills of the 20th New York Regiment, commanded by Reuben Elinwood.

1814 October 9. John S. Noble DS to John Chaffee; Springfield, [Massachusetts].
(2 pages)
Receipt for eleven balls of cannon powder "at the US Arsenal Charlestown."

1814 October 18. Andrew Jackson Cy to William Lauderdale; Mobile, [Alabama].
(3 pages)
Orders for the inspection of forts; three forts he will proceed to are Forts Claibourn, Jackson, and Williams.

1814 October 25. Joseph Williamson ALS to Norman Williams; Bangor, [Maine].
(3 pages)
Mentions the Battle at Hampden and British invasion; Description of hand picked British invasion force; British officers; British burned town on leaving; "great war operations have been going on in the Eastn. Section - operations which have...assailed the interests of individuals & endangered their personal security. The situation of the inhabitants, when the war is brought to their very doors, cannot fail of being more or less distressing."

1814 October 29. G. Wheeler ALS to Mary Wheeler; Harlan Heights, Pennsylvania.
(3 pages)
Discusses health, camp life; "the Men are getting Sick very fast. The Barracks are so open that we are obliged to send our Sick to the General Hospital…except those that are able to procure themselves private Lodging."

1814 October 29. Maria Ross ALS to George Cockburn; London, [England].
(3 pages)
Discusses misfortunes from the war.1814 October 29. James Monroe LS to Callender Irvine; War Department. 2 pages. Orders to find smuggled goods; "if it should appear that the blankets have been smuggled, you will have them seized." Irvine is to send the Department an estimate of the appropriations his department will need for the coming year.

1814 October 29. U.S. Army General Hospital DS; Baltimore, [Maryland].
(1 page)
[Note: Located in Oversize Manuscripts.]
Order for five cords of firewood.1814 November 4. Samuel Ranlet DS to ; Edgecomb, [Massachusetts]. 2 pages. Muster roll for the Massachusetts company of artillery under Captain Samuel Ranlet.

1814 November 8. George Wilson DS.
(1 page)
Account certifying that Wilson delivered the items listed (rations of pork, flour, and whiskey) to Antoine Boidon, "Patronizing the said James Morrisons Boat loaded with provisions destined for the Port of France…"

1814 November 11. New York State Militia 20th Regiment. Pr. Document & 2 ADs.
(4 pages)
Muster roll and pay receipt under Capt. Ira Hills; includes notes on deserters and those discharged. Folder includes two pay receipt rolls for the regiment.

1814 November 15. United States Army ADS to Col. Fisk; Portsmouth, [New Hampshire].
(1 page)
Military discharge, orders by Brigade Major James [Swan] which include paroling McDonough.

1814 November 18. Sir George Prevost LS to Sir Gordon Drummond; Montreal, [Quebec].
(2 pages)
Military strategy against General McArthur, hopes of setting up American troops as prey to Indian attacks, orders to burn American mills; "I am in hopes the force under General McArthur will…fall a sacrifice to the exertions of the Indians supported, as I trust they will have been by every possible assistance..." Because the Americans have destroyed British mills, he orders Drummond to "direct the Troops under your Command no longer to abstain...from burning the Mills in the Enemy's Country..."

1814 November 23. Joseph McGavock ALS to Hugh McGavock; Camp near Buffalo.
(3 pages)
Discusses his company's involvement in the Battle at Chippewa, summarizes the Niagara Campaign. He recounts a duel; "there was a Duel fought yesterday between Doct Dade of the tenth, and Capt James Paxton, of the twelveth, Dade was Killed Dead on the spot, and Capt Paxton Mortally wounded through the body."

1814 December 17. Charles Carroll ALS to Robert G[oodloe] Harper; Baltimore, [Maryland].
(2 pages)
Hopes to see a body of troops raised by the state; "It is much to be desired to have a body of regular troops raised by the State for its defence but I fear the means will be wanting to raise and pay a competent number."

1814 December 22. John Coffee DS; New Orleans, [Louisiana].
(1 page)
Order to pay $8 for an express rider to take dispatches to Maj. Gen. [Andrew] Jackson. Includes confirmation stating that "The above Services were performed as charged and aught to be paid." Includes receipt dated February 22, 1815, stating that the $8 was received in full.

1814 December 30. Lt. Blackshear ALS to John McIntosh; Camp on Oakmulgee Creek.
(2 pages)
Discusses marching, during which he detached two companies to clear a road and make a bridge.

[1814 to 1815]. 2 Manuscript notebooks.
(33 pages)
Two notebooks about United States privateers and warships; one is nine pages in length, the other is twenty four. The nine-page manuscript is entitled, "A Journal of Privateers & U.S. vessels That Sailed from the United States In 1814 or a part of them."

1814. Committee of British Merchants Document.
(55 pages)
Letter, minutes, and a printed appendix addressed to Sir George Prevost. The minutes suggest new boundaries and provide suggestions pertaining to American forts and vessels.

1814. Connecticut Adjutant General’s orders Pr. Document; Connecticut.
(1 page)
Broadside announcing that the captain general "is informed that doubts are entertained" whether officers of the militia are allowed to discharge commissioned officers; he believes that late Governor Trumbull's orders delegating this authority to the General Officers have not been revoked. He reminds officers of the stipulations under which discharges are acceptable. Includes writing from Ebenezer Huntington regarding returns of militia and list of [officer's] names that need to be sent to his office.

1814. 4 Documents.
(7 pages)
Receipts.

[post 1814]. Unknown AL to Unknown.
(4 pages)
Incomplete account of an individual’s military exploits during the War of 1812, including the Battle of Sackett’s Harbor. Born in Pennsylvania in 1786, the writer includes a brief autobiography. He joined the army as a 2nd lieutenant in the 15th Infantry under Col. Pike.

Box 5

1815 January 2. George Washington Campbell ADfS to John Armstrong; Nashville, [Tennessee].
(3 pages)
Comments on economic situation, the destruction of naval forces near New Orleans; "Our gun boats on the lakes near N. Orleans have been taken or [destroyed]…Will England make peace, if not…by the result of the Congress at Vienna?" He requests to information on political affairs.

1815 January 9. Joseph S. Winter ALS to Elisha I. Winter; New Orleans, [Louisiana].
(7 pages)
Discusses the Battle of New Orleans; "The British yesterday made a grand assault upon our Works and were repulsed with a most unprecedented loss on their side of killed & wounded & there is an armistice until 12 o'clock today for them to bury their dead…"

1815 January 12. Joseph S. Winter ALS to Elisha I. Winter; New Orleans, [Louisiana].
(4 pages)
Describes the Battle of New Orleans; "never was there an action wherein one side suffered so much and the other so little we having lost but six men killed and nine wounded & the British lost at least 1500 killed wounded & prisoners…" Includes a breakdown of the British troops that are killed or imprisoned (wounded and unwounded).

1815 January 18 to 1815 January 19. T. Searl ALS to Lucy Searl; Alexandria, [Virginia].
(3 pages)
Recounts his various experiences with Virginians.

1815 January 21. Thomas Hamilton ALS to Farish Carter; Camp 5 miles below Hartford, [Georgia].
(1 page)
Delivery of rations to Hartford; "Circumstances make it necessary that you should immediately turn your attention to the delivery at Hartford of thirty thousand Complete Rations Contemplated in a requisition…and as I am ordered to operate within the Settled limits of Georgia you will take Such Steps...to keep the Detachment...constantly furnished with thirty thousand Rations."

1815 January 24. U.S. Army Brigade under Coffee DS; Camp Coffee.
(1 page)
Report of the Brigade under John Coffee, signed by Joel Parrish Jr., "Brig Inspector."

1815 January 30. Joseph Bradley Varnum LS to George Thacher; Washington.
(32 pages)
A U.S. Representative from Massachusetts and staunch supporter of the war, Varnum defends the Republicans [Democratic-Republicans] from Thacher's charges against them. Folder includes Lawrence Kaplan's 1964 “A New Englander Defends the War of 1812."

1815 February 4. James Morrison ALS to Charles Simms; Washington.
(2 pages)
He is attempting to find transportation for the Kentucky Troops ordered to back-up Jackson’s Army. Discusses matters concerning his finances and his landlord receiving payment.

1815 February 13. S[tephen] Chase ALS to Stephen Chase; Baltimore, Maryland.
(5 page)
[Note: Original located in the Duane Norman Diedrich Collection.]
Son's letter to his father, regarding previously requested advice on a commission in the army. Discussion of Maryland troops and business in Baltimore versus that in Maryland. Celebrations in Baltimore in response to news of peace.

1815 February 23. James G. Almy ALS to John C. Almy; Savannah, [Georgia].
(3 pages)
Regarding preparations to defend Savannah; moving women, children, books, and papers out of harm's way. Almy states that he has been in poor health, but that he would have been ready to fight, except for the news of "peace since Cockburn took St. Mary's". He further notes that the loss of "a large slave population and fear of a general insurrection has caused us a great solicitude and anxiety - upwards of 600 prime slaves have been taken off by those ruffians, and enormities committed that would disgrace Cossacks or barbarians."

1815 March 2. Martha Shackelford ALS to Abby P. Manning; George Town, [South Carolina].
(3 pages)
Thanks to God for the end of the war; "as the blessing of Peace is once more restored to our Happy Land…may we be a Grateful people and know how to appreciate its Value…" Describes the celebration, includes lines from the hymn Thanksgiving for Victory Over Our Enemies.

1815 March 8. Thomas Nicholls ADS; New Orleans, Louisiana.
(2 pages)
Statement concerning the worth of Major David Abbot’s horse, which was killed in battle by a cannon ball; it was worth $150. Abbot served with the 3rd Regiment of Tennessee Militia.

1815 March 6. J.L.C. Hardy ALS to William Moultrie Reid; New Orleans, [Louisiana].
(3 pages)
Regarding a skirmish fought after the Battle of New Orleans; "I have now to inform you of a very narrow Escape I had of being made a prisoner by the English…"Of the battle, "they had to lament the loss of two of their first Generals & other Officers & about 6,000 men - our whole loss was only about 200 or 300 men..."

1815 April 5. Caesar Augustus Rodney, Jesse Green, and Cornelius F. Comegys LS to [Thomas Macdonough]; Dover, [Delaware].
(4 pages)
Enclosing resolution of the Senate and House of Delaware concerning Macdonough’s victory on Lake Champlain, "expressing, on their behalf, their sentiments & feelings, on the subject of your late engagement, with a superior fleet of the enemy, on Lake Champlain." Folder include two page resolution dated February 10, 1815 from the Delaware House and Senate.

1815 April 5. John Thomas DS to John Newman; Natchez, [Mississippi].
(2 pages)
Addressed to Maj. Genl. Andrew Jackson, an order for two dollars to be paid to Newman. Includes receipt on the back stating that Col. John Davies delivered the money.

1815 April 16.. H[unter], M.A. ALS to George W. Hunter; New Orleans, [Louisiana].
(3 pages)
News in New Orleans; "I was going to congratulate your mother upon the Peace, but the news of it was so soon followed by that of the war with Algiers, that I could not have that pleasure." Offers encouragement should Hunter be sent there. They arrives just as Jackson was departing; "he is almost idolised here particularly by the ladies..."

1815 April 17. Edmund Pendleton Gaines ALS to James Taylor; New Orleans, [Louisiana].
(2 pages)
Regarding the Battle of New Orleans; "the place has been saved, the British Army covered with everlasing Shame, and ours with imperishable glory - General Jackson's same is immortalized - peace is restored."

1815 June 13. [James] Hall ALS to Thomas I. Wharton; Boston, [Massachusetts].
(3 pages)
Discusses Bostonians' lack of regard for officers; "I am heartily sick of Boston…The people here look upon officers with disgust and terror - No gentleman who has a virgin daughter invites one willingly to his house - They seem to think we will exercise the right of Search upon all female bottoms..." Mentions being present at Governor [Caleb] Strong's induction into office.

[post 1815 October]. U.S. Army. Document.
(1 page)
Memo respecting Sergeant Gardiner’s appeal; the Captain General had been authorized to discharge commanding officers and sergeants "and to delegate this power to such subordinate Officers as he might think proper…The Act passed in [October] 1815 gave no such right of delegation respecting Sergeants..."

1815 December 15. Andrew Jackson ALS to William H. Crawford; Washington, [D.C.].
(3 pages)
Concerning staff organization of the army; "I conceive it a medical defect in the Act for the organization of the peace establishment that most of the important branches of the Staff have been left without a Head…I would therefore recommend as a measure of primary consequence that such officers as have been provisionally retained by retained permanently." Folder includes two-page manuscript schedule of stationary staff and division staff.

1815. 4 Documents.
(4 pages)
Receipts.

[1815 ca.]. [British Army, 100th Regiment of Foot] Pr. DS to John Guthrey.
(1 page)
Certifies that Guthrey, under Lieut. Col. Pilkington, was present at the capture of Moose Island, [Maine]. He "is entitled to any Emoluments arising from said Capture."

1816 March 7. James Monroe ALS to John Mason; Washington.
(1 page)
Regarding impressment and start of war; he recounts communication with Beasley during the war "stating that our impressed seamen had been delivered over, from differing frigates, to rescue them from the…fighters against their country, & [lodged] in prison." Many of them were imprisoned in Dartmoor, and the British government had demanded their release.

1818 August 11. F.W. Armstrong ALS; Knoxville, Tennessee.
(1 page)
Record of Armstrong’s promotion through the army. "Shortly After the Attack on the Chesepeak" he became lieutenant in a volunteer company, a captain in the infantry, and appointed Brigade Inspector.

1818 September 21. E. Mattoon Pr. DS to Zenas Stebbins; Boston, Massachusetts.
(1 page)
The Governor of Massachusetts [John Brooks] has accepted Stebbins' resignation as lieutenant colonel commanded and colonel by brevet of the 1st Artillery Brigade in the 4th Division of the Massachusetts Militia. He has been honorable discharged.

1818 November 16. Charles Colerick DS; United States.
(3 pages)
Regarding three months extra pay due to Colerick, a volunteer marine, for services in the Battle of Lake Erie. He served under the command of James Coburn; "I have never received any part of the extra pay…" Includes a two-page deposition by John Payne regarding Colerick, dated November 16, 1818. Payne was a captain of a troop of volunteer dragoons detached from the Kentucky militia.

1818 December 18. John Clement ALS to Peter Hagner; Haddenfield [New Jersey].
(2 pages)
Clement seeks pay for his time as paymaster in the war; he incloses letters regarding power of attorney.

1819 January 14. John Clement ALS to Peter Hagner; Haddenfield, [New Jersey].
(5 pages)
Clement’s seeking pay for his time as paymaster in war; he has received Hagner's letter stating that his accounts had beene examined and there "there was a balance due..of $1742.19, differing from my own statement to that Amount, with and enclosed statement shewing me how the difference had arisen, requesting me to Remove the objections to the Suspended Items made in my Account."

1819 January 28. John Clement ALS to Peter Hagner; Haddenfield, [New Jersey].
(2 pages)
Clement’s seeking pay for his time as paymaster in war; he gives an account of his services, beginning with Madison's 1814 request of New Jersey for five thousand men.

1819 February 10. John Clement ALS to Joseph Bloomfield; Haddenfield, [New Jersey].
(2 pages)
Clement seeks pay for his time as paymaster in war.

1822 February 13. Robert Herriot Barclay ALS to John James Douglas.
(6 pages)
Barclay has been considering making an application for promotion to the Duke of Buckingham, as it relates to Buckingham's speech before the House of Lords about "my defeat upon Lake Erie." Folder includes a copy of Barclay's court martial, dated September 9, 1814, and Sir George Prevost's extract of general orders relating to Barclay’s conduct on Lake Erie. Also includes a private ALS from Barclay to Douglas dated May 22, 1822.

1825 August 7. Sir George Cockburn ACyS to Louisa C. Shaw.
(4 pages)
Regarding payment, supplies, and forces under his command at Cumberland Island [Georgia]; "Gt. Britain was at the time at War with America, & Cumberland Island was taken by Force of Arms, you & your Possessions on the Island fell into our Hands, but as Individuals not carrying Arms you were respected &...orders were given not to injure your property nor to take anything belonging to you without paying for it..."

1831 November 16. Louis McLane DS; Treasury Department, Washington, [D.C.].
(3 pages)
McLane, Secretary of the Treasury, settling account of James Taylor, Quarter Master General of the Northwest Army during the war. Countersigned by Thomas L. Smith, Register of the Treasury. Includes Taylor's account from 1812.

1834 February 22. Michigan Legislative Council Pr. DS to United States Congress.
(2 pages)
Regarding claims of Michigan citizens for property lost, captured, or destroyed in the war; "there are many worthy citizens of the Territory of Michigan, who...suffered severe and heavy losses or property...during the late war; since...they have sought relief from the government of the United States in vain." Includes manuscript resolution, dated February 26, 1834, that a copy be transmitted to the President, Speaker of the House and the delegate in Congress from Michigan Territory.

1835 April 22. Andrew Mauchalk ALS; Washington, [D.C.].
(4 pages)
Regrets that someone else, Dr. Wren, has received an appointment and not the recipient's father. He is "totally unacquainted with the duties of the Office...and, decidedly, the most unpopular man in Natchez." Discusses friendship with President Jackson, who has a "certain junto" around him inspecting incoming letters and is presumably responsible for Jackson's not replying to his letters yet. Vilifies George Poindexter for his role in the Battle of New Orleans.

1837 January 11. Daniel Turner LS to John Holmes; Newport, [Rhode Island].
(2 pages)
Regarding service of Dr. Usher Parsons, his older brother, in the Battle of Lake Erie and the war; "his duties were…more important than those of any other medical officer on the Lake during the first year of the War, or until the fleet of Commodore Perry was ready to Sail."

1837 February. Thomas Holdup Stevens LS to John Holmes; Philadelphia, [Pennsylvania].
(3 pages)
Regarding service of Dr. Usher Parsons, a friend of his, in the Battle of Lake Erie and the war; "I believe Dr. Parsons is the only commissioned officer who was in the Battle of Lake Erie, who has not received from his native State some testimonial of its approbation..."

1841 January 20.. [George] Ray ALS to James D. Ray; Detroit, [Michigan].
(4 pages)
Reflection on the massacre at River Raisin [Frenchtown], Michigan in January 1813, "famous from the fact of its having been the place of one of the [most] brutal massacres…ever disgraced…"

1847 April 12. John Neal ACyS to William H. Winder; Portland, Maine.
(2 pages)
Concerning the military and law career of William Henry Winder.

1853 June 1. S. Cole ALS to Hugh D. McLellan; s.l.
(2 pages)
Update on Samuel Libbey’s War of 1812 pension case. Libbey served in Captain George Bender’s Company of the 9th Infantry.Unable to find his records or any proof that his disability stemmed from his service.

1858 June 26. Lewis Elliott ALS to Justice of the Peace; Hampden, Ohio.
(2 pages)
Seeking information on George King, who claims to have served in a company of volunteers; he "wants to obtain a land warrant he sais that he belonged to a Company of volunteers Commanded by Captain Blanchard…said King has made an application but his Claim is not Granted the name of Captain Blanchard not being found at Washington..."

1858 December 16. James Buchanan DS to John Baptiste LaPoint; Washington, [D.C.].
(1 page)
[Note: Located in Oversize Manuscripts.]
Deed of 80 acres of land for War of 1812 service granted to LaPoint, a private in the Michigan militia has been granted to George M. Dewey.

1859 December 10 James Buchanan partially printed DS to James McClellan
(1 page)
"In pursuance of the Act of Congress, approved MARCH 3, 1855, entitled 'An Act in addition to certain Acts granting Bounty Land to certain Officers and Soldiers who have been engaged in the Military Service of the United States…" Granting 120 acres of land for sale at Sioux City, Iowa, to James McClellan, "Private, Captain Miller's Company, Pennsylvania Militia, War of 1812." Names Jane Doak as the assignee. Secretarial signature of James Buchanan. Signed J. B. Leonard, Secretary, and J. N. Grange, Recorder of the General Land Office. Includes an image of the American flag. Recorded at the O'Brien County, Iowa, Records office on November 10, 1886, for taxation purposes.

1860 February 15. Stephen Champlin ALS to L.B. Chavalier; Buffalo, [New York].
(1 page)
Regarding Chevalier’s painting of the Battle of Lake Erie; "I think the enclosed representation You sent me of the Squadron at the close of the Battle is perfect…I would like to submit it to Dr Parsons who I shall see either here or in Providence next Spring."

1860 August 27. Stephen Champlin ALS to L.B. Chevalier; Buffalo, [New York].
(1 page)
Regarding Chevalier’s painting of the Battle of Lake Erie; he answers Chevalier's question by stating that "The Queen Charlotte was a full rigged ship." He congratulates him on his progress with the painting and hopes to see him in September in Cleveland.

Post 1860 August 27. L.B. Chevalier ACy to Stephen Champlin.
(1 page)
Regarding a ship, Queen Charlotte, used in the War of 1812; Chevalier called upon "Capt Miles who raised the Detroit and Queen Charlotte and filled them out in 1836…The Queen Charlotte was a Brig and no mistake about it, as the partners and steps showed conclusively. The deck was quite good..."

1860 August 29. Stephen Champlin ALS to L.B. Chevalier; Buffalo, [New York].
(1 page)
Regarding Chevalier’s painting of the Battle of Lake Erie and in particular information regarding the ship, Queen Charlotte. He recounts his experience with the ship following the battle.

Undated, June 6. James Biddle ALS to [William Bainbridge]; Philadelphia, [Pennsylvania].
(2 pages)
Naval matters; trying to get command of a ship

Undated. William Duane ALS to Callender Irvine.
(1 page)
A friend has enquired to him on how to obtain 26 swords and a trumpet; Duane wishes to know how they could be obtained, if at all.

Undated. Document.
(2 pages)
List of names of soldiers from the District of Columbia who served in the War of 1812.

Undated. David Riddle ALS to John Lewis Thomson
(2 pages)
Regarding the military service of Thomas and Samuel Riddle, both veterans of the war. Samuel served on the Northern frontier and Thomas served under General Hull. Riddle's younger brother, Abram, "was about to march for the frontier when he was killed by his horse falling on him he was a sergeant of a volunteer troop of Dragoons, in the state of Ohio..."

Undated. General Committee of Defense Account to Isaac Roberdeau; s.l.
(1 page)
Itemized statement of "expences of topographical engineers."
Includes expenses for transportation, surveying, and other sundries.

Undated. AMs; s.l.
(2 pages)
"The Yankey Tars."Manuscript copy of a version of the folksong "The Constitution and the Guerriere."Reference to the War of 1812 naval battle between Captain James Richard Dacres (1788-1853) of the HMS Guerriere and Captain Isaac Hull (1773-1843) of the Constitution ."Now Brittons you / be still since wee/ have given you your / fill and Boast no / more of Dacris your/ Grandy O / John Bull may boast/ his fill & the world/ say what they will / But the yankey tar/ for fighting are the/ Dandy O"